Multi-use-pillow toy

ABSTRACT

The present invention comprises a cover and a compartment having an interior space. The cover is attached to the bottom edge of the compartment such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment. The invention further includes a cushion attached to the compartment. The cover is configurable to substantially envelop the upper torso of a user while the user is sitting on the compartment. The present invention provides for a multi-use article that protects a user from the elements and provides a cushion for comfort while being compact, easily transportable and configurable to add aesthetically pleasing as well as functional accessories.

PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/407,460, filed Aug. 30, 2002, which is incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to pillow toys and, more specifically, to multi-use pillow toys.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Covers such as blankets, tarps and jackets have long been used to protect a user from the elements. Pillows have been used to provide cushion and thus comfort to the head, torso or other region of the user's anatomy. Stuffed toys are common collectibles of children and adults alike. A user desiring the benefits of each of these, however, must arrange for the transport and storage of each article separately. Depending on the size of each of these articles, transporting and using each of these at particular events or in given circumstances can be inconvenient or even difficult.

[0004] Thus, there is a need for a multi-use article designed to provide the benefits of protecting a user from the elements and providing a cushion for comfort while being compact, easily transportable and configurable to add aesthetically pleasing as well as functional accessories.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to a multi-use pillow toy including a cover and a compartment having a top section having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge. The compartment has an interior space defined by attaching the top edge, left edge and right edge of the top section to the cover. The cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.

[0006] In an alternative embodiment, the multi-use pillow toy includes a cover and a compartment having a top section and a bottom section, the top section and the bottom section each having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge. The compartment has an interior space defined by attaching the top edge, left edge and right edge of the top section to the top edge, left edge and right edge of the bottom section, respectively. The cover is attached to the bottom edge of the compartment such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.

[0007] In accordance with yet other aspects of the invention, the multi-use pillow toy further includes a cushion attached to the compartment.

[0008] In accordance with still other aspects of the invention, the cover is configurable to substantially envelop the upper torso of a user while the user is sitting on the compartment.

[0009] Accordingly, the present invention provides for a multi-use article that protects a user from the elements and provides a cushion for comfort while being compact, easily transportable and configurable to add aesthetically pleasing as well as functional accessories.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The preferred and alternative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings.

[0011]FIG. 1 is an illustration of a multi-use pillow toy in its expanded form made in accordance with the present invention;

[0012]FIG. 2 is a view of the multi-use pillow toy shown in FIG. 1, partially compacted;

[0013]FIG. 3 is a view of the multi-use pillow toy shown in FIG. 1, completely compacted;

[0014]FIG. 4 is a front view of the side of the compacted multi-use pillow toy shown in FIG. 3;

[0015]FIG. 5 is an illustration of an alternative embodiment of a multi-use pillow toy in its expanded form made in accordance with the present invention;

[0016]FIG. 6 is a view of the multi-use pillow toy shown in FIG. 5, partially compacted;

[0017] FIGS. 7-11 are perspective views of various embodiments of a multi-use pillow toy made in accordance with the present invention; and

[0018]FIG. 12 is an illustration of a multi-use pillow toy in its expanded form as used to shelter a user while providing comfortable seating.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0019] The preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to a multi-use pillow toy designed to provide compact storage and easy portability while expanding to provide a cushioned seat support while allowing concurrent head or body coverage of a blanket or other cover. By way of overview, the present invention consists of a carrying case or pouch enclosing a blanket or other covering material that is amenable to compaction into the pouch.

[0020] The pouch is preferably made of a polar fleece type material, but any material susceptible to pouch configuration may be used. Likewise, the blanket is preferably made of a polar fleece type material, but may be made of any material usable as a blanket or covering material. The material used for both the pouch and blanket is preferably water-repellent and washable, but may be of virtually any type or makeup (e.g., fabric, leather, vinyl, foil, plastic, etc.). In a preferred embodiment, the pouch is square in shape and sized approximately sixteen inches. Alternative shapes and sizes are anticipated, for example, circular, oval, heart-shaped, triangular, various cookie-cutter shapes, etc.

[0021] As better understood with reference to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the pillow toy 10 of the present invention includes a sheet or blanket 12 having a top edge 14, a bottom edge 16, a left edge 18 and a right edge 20. The pillow toy 10 further includes a carrying case or pouch 30 having a top edge 32, a bottom edge 34, a left edge 36 and a right edge 38. The blanket 12 is preferably attached to one or more edges of the pouch 30 by thread, Velcro, adhesive or other methods of permanent or removable attachment. In the preferred embodiment, the blanket 12 is attached to the pouch 30 along the pouch top edge 32, left edge 36 and right edge 38 using thread 42, 44 and 46, respectively, which also defined the interior space of the pouch 30. In the expanded form shown in FIG. 1, the blanket 12 of the pillow toy 10 extends beyond the parameter of the pouch 30 for use as a traditional blanket or other covering.

[0022] As described with reference to FIGS. 1-4, the blanket 12 may be folded such that it compacts to fit within the pouch 30. The blanket section 50 is preferably folded underneath the blanket section 60 along line 52. The blanket section 54 is preferably folded underneath the blanket section 60 along line 56. The order in which blanket sections 50 and 54 are folded underneath blanket section 60 may be reversed.

[0023] As described with reference to FIG. 2, the blanket section 60 is folded up to fit within pouch 30. Subsection 62 of the blanket section 60 is folded onto subsection 64 of the blanket section 60 along line 66. Subsection 62 and subsection 64 of the blanket section 60 are folded onto subsection 68 of the blanket section 60 along line 70. All three of the blanket section 60 subsections (62, 64, 68) are folded and placed into the pouch 30 through pouch opening 46 along the unattached bottom edge of the pouch 30. As described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, in compacted form, the blanket 12 is substantially enclosed within the pouch 30, save along the opening 46 and the bottom of the blanket forming the underside of the pouch 30.

[0024] In an alternative embodiment, the opening 46 and the bottom of the blanket forming the underside of the pouch 30 may be removably attached to substantially close the pouch 30. Ways to removable attach the opening 46 and the bottom of the blanket include, for example, a zipper, Velcro, buttons and snaps.

[0025]FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the pillow toy 100 of the present invention. This embodiment of the present invention includes a sheet or blanket 112 having a top edge 114, a bottom edge 116, a left edge 118 and a right edge 120. This embodiment further includes a carrying case or pouch 130 having a top edge 132, a bottom edge 134, a left edge 136, a right edge 138, a top section 122 and a bottom section 124 (not shown). The blanket 112 is preferably attached to the single edge 134 of the bottom section 124 (not shown) of the pouch 130 by thread, Velcro, adhesive or other methods of permanent or removable attachment. The blanket 112 may be attached to the single edge 134 of the top section 122 of the pouch 130. In the preferred embodiment, the interior space of the pouch 130 is defined by stitching together the top section 122 and the bottom section 124 (not shown) along the top edge 132, left edge 136 and right edge 138 using thread 142, 144 and 146, respectively. In the expanded form shown in FIG. 5, the blanket 112 extends beyond the parameter of the pouch 130 for use as a traditional blanket or other covering.

[0026] As described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the blanket 112 may be folded such that it compacts to fit within the pouch 130. The blanket section 150 is preferably folded on top of the blanket section 160 along line 152. The blanket section 154 is preferably folded on top of the blanket section 160 along line 156. The order in which the blanket sections 150 and 154 are folded on top of the blanket section 160 may be reversed.

[0027] As described with reference to FIG. 6, the blanket section 160 is folded up to fit within pouch 130. Subsection 162 of the blanket section 160 is folded onto subsection 164 of the blanket section 160 along line 166. Subsection 162 and subsection 164 of the blanket section 160 are folded onto subsection 168 of the blanket section 160 along line 170. Subsection 162 and subsection 164 and subsection 168 of the blanket section 160 are folded onto subsection 172 of the blanket section 160 along line 174. All four of the blanket section 160 subsections (162, 164, 168, 172) are folded and placed into the pouch 130 through pouch opening 146 along the unattached bottom edge of the pouch 130. In compacted form, the blanket 112 is substantially enclosed within the pouch 130, save along the opening 146.

[0028] In an alternative embodiment, the opening 146 may be sealed by removably attaching the bottom edge 134 of the top section 122 to the bottom edge 134 of the bottom section 124 (not shown). Ways to removable attach the bottom edge 134 of the top section 122 to the bottom edge 134 of the bottom section 124 (not shown) include, for example, a zipper, Velcro, buttons and snaps.

[0029] FIGS. 7-11 illustrate alternative embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 7 illustrates a pillow toy 10 or 100 wherein handles 200 are sewn or otherwise attached to the pouch to facilitate transportation of the pillow toy. FIG. 8 illustrates a pillow toy 10 or 100 wherein straps 202 are sewn or otherwise attached to the pouch to facilitate handling and transport of the pillow toy. In alternative embodiments other handles, belts or straps may be attached to the pouch to facilitate handling and transport. The pillow toy may be configured for carrying as a suitcase, belt attachment, backpack, etc.

[0030] Alternative embodiments of the present invention contemplate the addition of various features and functionality to the exterior of the pouch. FIG. 9 illustrates a pillow toy 10 or 100 wherein a cushioning three-dimensional padded bear shape 204 is sewn, embroidered or otherwise attached on one or more sides of the pouch. This provides additional structural padding to the pillow toy beyond that provided for by the blanket, especially when the blanket has been expanded out of the pouch. Any type of three-dimensional image may be used with the pouch. Examples include other types of three-dimensional animals, car images, sports team logos, etc. The present invention contemplates use as a promotional device for or on behalf of schools, sports teams, businesses, non-profit organizations, etc. by incorporation of authorized branding as the three-dimensional images on the pouch, providing the dual benefits of cushioning support and marketing.

[0031]FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate yet alternative embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 10 illustrates the incorporation of storage pockets such as a zipper pocket 206, a button pocket 208 and a snap pocket 210. These storage pockets may be integrated into the pouch or blanket to facilitate the storage of various items. In yet alternative embodiments, audio devices such as music or voice players may be sewn or otherwise integrated into the pouch or blanket. In alternative embodiments mirrors, reflectors or other ornamental devices may be sewn or otherwise integrated into the pouch or blanket. FIG. 11 illustrates the incorporation of an audio device 212, a mirror 214 and pencil or pen holders 216.

[0032] The present invention has a variety of uses. By way of example only, in its stored mode, the present invention may be used as a pillow, snuggle toy, seat cushion, throw toy, storage container, carrying case or backpack, etc. In its expanded mode, the present invention may be used as a blanket, rain poncho/coat/covering, table cloth, etc. As illustrated with reference to FIG. 12, a user may use the pillow toy of the present invention as a seat cushion while covered for warmth or other protection from the elements by the blanket. In FIG. 12, the user is seated on the pouch 130 of the pillow toy 100 cushioned by a three-dimensional padded bear shape 204 or other shape or padding. The blanket 112 is expanded and used to wrap a substantial portion of the user against the elements. A portion or the entire blanket 112 may be used to cover various parts of the user.

[0033] The present invention offers distinct benefits over known toys, pillows or blankets by providing a multi-use pillow toy having attributes associated with a variety of devices. These benefits make the invention useful in a wide variety of settings.

[0034] While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the disclosure of the preferred embodiment. Instead, the invention should be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow. 

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. A multi-use pillow toy, comprising a cover and a compartment having a top section having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the compartment having an interior space defined by attaching the top edge, left edge and right edge of the top section to the cover such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.
 2. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the compartment is attached to the cover by thread.
 3. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the compartment is removably attached to the cover.
 4. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the bottom edge of the compartment and the cover are removably connectable when the cover is compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.
 5. The multi-use pillow toy of claim,l, wherein the cover is made of polar fleece type material.
 6. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the cover is water-repellent and washable.
 7. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the compartment is made of polar fleece type material.
 8. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the compartment is water-repellent and washable.
 9. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment by folding the cover into successively smaller sections that are placed within the interior space of the compartment.
 10. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, further comprising a cushion attached to the compartment.
 11. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1, wherein the cover is configurable to substantially envelop the upper torso of a user while the user is sitting on the compartment.
 12. A multi-use pillow toy, comprising a cover; a compartment having a top section and a bottom section, the top section and the bottom section each having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge, the compartment having an interior space defined by attaching the top edge, left edge and right edge of the top section to the top edge, left edge and right edge of the bottom section, respectively; wherein the cover is attached to the bottom edge of the compartment such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.
 13. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is attached to the bottom edge of the top section of the compartment.
 14. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is attached to the bottom edge of the bottom section of the compartment.
 15. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 1-2, wherein the cover is attached to the bottom edge of the compartment by thread.
 16. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the bottom edge of the top section and the bottom edge of the bottom section are removably connectable when the cover is compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.
 17. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is removably attached to the bottom edge of the compartment.
 18. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is made of polar fleece type material.
 19. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is water-repellent and washable.
 20. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the compartment is made of polar fleece type material.
 21. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the compartment is water-repellent and washable.
 22. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is attached to the bottom edge of the compartment such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment by folding the cover into successively smaller sections that are placed within the interior space of the compartment.
 23. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, further comprising a cushion attached to the compartment.
 24. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 12, wherein the cover is configurable to substantially envelop the upper torso of a user while the user is sitting on the compartment.
 25. A multi-use pillow toy, comprising a cover; a compartment having a top section and a bottom section, the top section and the bottom section each having a top edge, a bottom edge, a left edge and a right edge; means for attaching the top edge, left edge and right edge of the top section to the top edge, left edge and right edge of the bottom section, respectively, to define an interior space of the compartment; means for attaching the cover to the compartment such that the cover can be compacted to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment.
 26. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, wherein the cover is made of polar fleece type material.
 27. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, wherein the cover is water-repellent and washable.
 28. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, wherein the compartment is made of polar fleece type material.
 29. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, wherein the compartment is water-repellent and washable.
 30. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, further comprising means for compacting the cover to fit substantially within the interior space of the compartment by folding the cover into successively smaller sections that are placed within the interior space of the compartment.
 31. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, further comprising a cushion attached to the compartment.
 32. The multi-use pillow toy of claim 25, wherein the cover is configurable to substantially envelop the upper torso of a user while the user is sitting on the compartment. 